Astana, 5 November, . Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev signed a memorandum of understanding with Hyundai Motor Company on smart cities and artificial intelligence, the ministry said.
The meeting with a Hyundai Motor Group delegation led by Executive Vice President and head of the Future Strategy Department Hokeun Chung took place as part of the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea, including the outcomes of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit to Korea in September 2026. The sides discussed the digital transformation of cities, the introduction of artificial intelligence, robotics and physical AI technologies. Special attention was paid to intelligent transport systems, urban traffic management, mobility on demand, robotic delivery, smart parking and charging infrastructure.
Almaty and Alatau are considered as sites for joint pilot projects. The memorandum provides for an exchange of experience and technological competences, a joint study of the possibilities for pilots, development of professional skills and the creation of a joint working group. The sides will determine specific projects and terms separately in accordance with Kazakhstan’s legislation; the ministry named no amounts or dates.
What it means: What has been signed is a framework document, not a project agreement: there is no pilot, budget or date yet, only a working group and two cities considered as sites.
Who benefits: According to the ministry, the cooperation is aimed at making transport and urban infrastructure more efficient and at solutions that can be scaled in the regions. What Hyundai itself gains is not stated in the report.
Background: Physical AI is a direction in which a model not only processes data but controls devices in the real world: robots, vehicles, sensors. According to the ministry’s note, Hyundai Motor Group unites Hyundai Motor Company and Kia and develops future mobility, robotics, artificial intelligence and smart cities. Alatau is a city being created in Almaty region.
